ICC to Reconsider WTC Expansion in Major Meeting to Include Minor Teams

The International Cricket Council is expected to review several proposed changes to the World Test Championship during its meetings later this month, including plans to expand the competition beyond its current format. Discussions around whether ICC to reconsider WTC expansion are likely to form a major part of the agenda during the upcoming Chief Executives Committee and Board meetings.

According to reports, the ICC’s Chief Executives Committee will meet virtually on May 21, while board directors are scheduled to gather in Ahmedabad on May 30 and 31 for in-person discussions. The meetings were initially planned to take place in Doha earlier this year before being rescheduled.

Revised WTC Proposal Under Review

A working group led by former New Zealand cricket team batter Roger Twose is expected to submit updated recommendations on the future structure of the competition. The panel had previously proposed a two-division model for the World Test Championship, but several Full Member boards were not in favour of the plan.

The revised proposal is understood to focus on a 12-team format, which would bring Zimbabwe cricket team, Afghanistan cricket team and Ireland cricket team into the championship structure.

One-off Tests May Also Count

Another proposal likely to be discussed involves allowing standalone Test matches to contribute points towards the WTC standings. Under the current rules, a series must include at least two Tests to qualify for the championship table.

Officials involved in the discussions believe the move could encourage larger cricket boards to schedule more matches against smaller nations. Financial concerns have previously limited opportunities for some teams, particularly where multi-match Test series were considered commercially difficult.

The ICC board is expected to review the recommendations before any final decision is taken on changes to the next World Test Championship cycle.